DiscoverHome Designs For Life: Remodeling Ideas To Increase Safety, Function, And Accessibility In The Home.
Home Designs For Life:  Remodeling Ideas To Increase Safety, Function, And Accessibility In The Home.
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Home Designs For Life: Remodeling Ideas To Increase Safety, Function, And Accessibility In The Home.

Author: Janet Engel, OT/L, CAPS, ECHM

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My podcasts offers solutions to help older adults stay in their homes for as long as possible. 

We explore creative home modification solutions and talk to experts in the building and healthcare industry to help older adults and their caregivers navigate how to create safer, more attractive, and comfortable spaces while simultaneously increasing their home value. 

Let us educate you on creating a home that changes with you, so you can live your best life at any age!

83 Episodes
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Tom Jameson discusses the Federal Home Loan Bank Grant program and the specific program he created in West Lafayette, Indiana. The program provides grant dollars to qualified homeowners for home modifications and repairs. Tom explains the income requirements and how to find member banks in your community. He also highlights the benefits of CAP certification for performing home modification evaluations and accessing grant funds. Tom shares his background in construction and the impact of CAP certification on his work. He discusses the SHARP program and the importance of partnerships and collaboration. Tom encourages others to explore the grant program and consider replicating his model in their communities.Chapters00:00Introduction to the Federal Home Loan Bank Grant Program02:03The Affordable Housing Program Initiatives03:01Target Audience and Program Specifics04:25Senior Homeowners Assistance for Repair Program (SHARP)06:03Household Income Requirements07:49Finding Member Banks in Your Community09:35Costs and Benefits for Homeowners and Banks11:12CAP Certification and Home Modification Evaluations14:44Tom's Background and Construction Expertise22:26The SHARP Program and Partnerships25:40Increased Grant Funding and Program Growth28:35Reimbursement for Services through the Grant29:57Expanding Services and Collaboration Opportunities33:11Accessing the Grant Program in Other Communities38:16The Importance of Collaboration and Networking44:02Taking Advantage of the Grant ProgramContact InformationTo find the HUD Income Limits: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.htmlFederal Home Loan Banks Main Site: https://fhlbanks.com/Tom Jameson/SHARP: SHARPassist@mail.com Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Ilan Tiagai, CEO and co-founder of the Smart Hygiene Company, discusses the inspiration behind creating the first AI bidet on the market. He explains how spectroscopy is used in the bidet to identify and clean soiled areas. The bidet's smart features, such as adjusting water temperature and thorough cleaning, set it apart from traditional bidets. Ilan also highlights the environmental impact of using bidets and the increased popularity of bidets during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares the target audience for the bidet and the positive response from consumers. Ilan discusses the future innovations planned for the bidet and the company's successes so far.TakeawaysThe Smart Hygiene Company has created the first AI bidet on the market, using spectroscopy and AI to thoroughly clean soiled areas.The bidet's smart features, such as adjusting water temperature and thorough cleaning, enhance the user experience compared to traditional bidets.Using bidets can have a positive environmental impact by reducing the use of toilet paper and conserving water.Bidets have become more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic due to toilet paper shortages.The target audience for the bidet includes seniors, people with disabilities, and patients who need help with toileting.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:13 Inspiration behind creating the first AI bidet05:16 Enhancing the user experience with AI09:38 Smart features that set the bidet apart14:48 Environmental impact and water conservation16:26 Bidets becoming more popular during COVID25:22 Availability and cost of the bidet27:02 Successes and future innovations32:06 Importance of addressing toilet hygieneYouTube video: https://youtu.be/wlqK9V-BJikSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
In this conversation, Janet has a conversation with John O'Brien, the CEO of Healthcraft, and Sandy Alexander, OT.  HealthCraft is a company that specializes in fall prevention products. They discuss the story behind the SuperPole, the importance of fall prevention, and the innovative solutions Healthcraft has developed for bathroom safety. They also talk about the evolution of Healthcraft products, blending functionality and aesthetics, and the Easy Mount installation solution. The conversation highlights the SuperPole and its benefits for individuals with mobility issues. The conversation explores the installation process and universal design principles of accessible products. It then delves into future market trends and the need for aesthetically pleasing solutions. The benefits of seated surfaces for fall prevention are discussed, including wide and comfortable seating options. The conversation highlights the importance of back support and energy conservation during bathing. It emphasizes the preventability of falls and the impact of hazards in the home. The chapter concludes with the idea of making products look good to increase their appeal and adoption.TakeawaysAccessible products can be installed by any homeowner, regardless of their handy skills.Universal design principles focus on simplicity, intuitiveness, and low physical effort.Future market trends in accessibility include a demand for aesthetically pleasing solutions.Seated surfaces in showers provide a safer bathing experience and conserve energy.Wide and comfortable seating options are essential for accessibility.Back support is crucial for comfort and safety during bathing.Falls are often preventable, and hazards in the home play a significant role.Making products look good increases their appeal and adoption.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview00:42 Introduction to Healthcraft01:32 The Story Behind the SuperPole04:07 The Importance of Fall Prevention05:39 Innovative Solutions for Bathroom Safety10:55 The Evolution of Healthcraft Products18:05 Blending Functionality and Aesthetics25:37 Innovative Solutions for Bathroom Storage30:39 Easy Mount Installation Solution39:07 The SuperPole and its Benefits46:29 Installation and Universal Design47:18 Future Market Trends49:25 Design Solutions for Accessibility50:23 Seated Surfaces for Fall Prevention52:37 Benefits of Seated Surfaces53:33 Wide and Comfortable Seating54:25 Back Support and Energy Conservation55:27 Preventing Falls and UTIs56:25 Advantages of Wall-Mounted Benches57:45 Simplifying Installation and Maintenance58:43 Cost and Value of Seated Surfaces59:33 The Impact of Falls and Preventability01:02:17 Misunderstandings and Preventable Falls01:04:21 Making Products Look Good Watch Podcast Episode on You TubeSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Jill Bjerke, the founder and CEO of Silver Spaces, discusses the Silver Spaces Senior Home Safety Assessment that she created. The assessment is designed to help aging in place professionals and homeowners make homes safer for older adults. It allows users to pick specific rooms in the home and answer standardized questions about safety features. The assessment can be used by professionals and laypersons alike, and it provides detailed modification suggestions based on the user's responses. The assessment is accessible on any device and can be customized for different users. Future developments include virtual assessments and AI integration.TakeawaysThe Silver Spaces Senior Home Safety Assessment is a tool designed to help aging in place professionals and homeowners make homes safer for older adults.The assessment allows users to pick specific rooms in the home and answer standardized questions about safety features.It provides detailed modification suggestions based on the user's responses and can be used by professionals and laypersons alike.Future developments of the assessment include virtual assessments and AI integration.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:03 Creation of Silver Spaces04:30 Key Features of the Silver Spaces Home Assessment07:51 User Experience and Feedback10:57 Assessment for Professionals and Lay Persons13:05 Designing the Assessment for Different Users15:46 Complex Evaluations and Modifications18:28 Considering Health History in the Assessment20:56 Addressing Conditions that Change Over Time24:18 Universal Design and Multi-Generational Living25:46 Duration and Accessibility of the Assessment27:23 Future Developments of the Silver Spaces Assessment28:59 Cost of the Assessment31:00 Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals34:21 Importance of Supportive Services37:11 Getting Started with the Silver Spaces Tool38:19 ConclusionWatch Podcast episode on YouTubeSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
In this conversation, Sue Wadden and Emily Kantz from Sherwin-Williams discuss the impact of color on health, safety and wellness. They explain how different colors influence mood and mental health, and recommend specific colors for creating calming environments. They also discuss Sherwin-Williams' annual color mix and color forecast, and how it reflects and influences public health and wellness trends. Additionally, they highlight Sherwin-Williams' products that contribute to health and safety, such as odor-eliminating and air-purifying paints. Finally, they address the company's marketing efforts to cater to the growing demographic of older adults and their specific needs for aging in place. The conversation covers topics such as welfare, health, safety, and sustainability in the paint industry. It also delves into the color forecasting process and the impact of color in our lives. The guests discuss personal experiences with Sherwin-Williams colors and the possibility of a color forecast specifically for older adults. They also explore the expansion of the conversation on color and the next phase of the paint industry as GenXers age.TakeawaysColor has a significant impact on mood and mental health, and specific colors can create calming environments.Sherwin-Williams' annual color mix and color forecast reflect and influence public health and wellness trends.Sherwin-Williams offers products that contribute to health and safety, such as odor-eliminating and air-purifying paints.The company is mindful of the growing demographic of older adults and their specific needs for aging in place. Welfare, health, safety, and sustainability are important considerations in the paint industry.The color forecasting process involves a workshop where themes and a color of the year are determined.Personal experiences with Sherwin-Williams colors highlight the impact of color in interior design.There is potential for a color forecast that takes into account the changing vision of older adults.Expanding the conversation on color and sharing knowledge is a goal for the future.Color has a significant impact on our lives and can transform spaces.As GenXers age, there may be a shift towards hiring professional painters for safety reasons.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Job Roles04:06 Color and its Impact on Health and Wellness10:28 Color Mix and Color Forecast17:23 Influence of Color Forecast on Health and Wellness Trends25:19 Sherwin-Williams' Products for Health and Safety35:05 Differentiating Sherwin-Williams' Paint Products42:08 Microbicidal and Odor-Eliminating Paints46:00 Marketing to the Aging Population46:57 Welfare, HSW, and Sustainability49:15 Color Forecasting Process51:23 Personal Experience with Sherwin-Williams Colors52:54 Color Forecast for Older Adults53:31 Expanding the Conversation on Color55:15 Impact of Color in Our Lives56:21 Next Phase: Aging GenXers and Professional PaintersSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Viconic Health is a company that specializes in developing and manufacturing passive impact protection systems. Their goal is to bring the same level of passive impact protection to senior living that is currently enjoyed in industries like automotive and sports. They have developed an underlayment system that provides enhanced fall protection in long-term care facilities and aging in place environments. The system is compatible with flexible floor coverings and has been tested to reduce the risk of severe and critical injuries from falls. The cost of installation is around $7.50 per square foot. Viconic Health is actively working on creating awareness and developing relationships with installers and providers in the industry.TakeawaysViconic Health specializes in passive impact protection systems for senior living.Their underlayment system provides enhanced fall protection in long-term care and aging in place environments.The system is compatible with flexible floor coverings and has been tested to reduce the risk of severe and critical injuries from falls.The cost of installation is around $7.50 per square foot.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview of Viconic Health01:29 Development of Underlayment System for Fall Protection03:24 Increased Risk of Death from Falls04:47 Technology Behind the Product06:56 Product Demonstration10:33 Compatibility with Flooring Options12:27 Installation Process and Flooring Suppliers16:42 Reduction in Risk of Serious Injuries22:11 Cost of Installation24:13 Enhanced Comfort and Other Benefits27:14 Suitability for Different Spaces29:04 Application in Aging in Place34:00 Upcoming Enhancements and New Products36:02 Conclusion and Contact InformationContact Joel Cormier on LinkedInWhitePaperSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Jeff Weiss, founder and CEO of Age of Majority, discusses the power of active agers in his TEDx talk. He emphasizes the importance of embracing aging and living a vibrant, active life. Jeff dispels misconceptions in marketing campaigns targeted at older adults and highlights the value they bring to various sectors, such as the workforce and community service. He also emphasizes the significance of focusing on physical and mental health for overall well-being. Jeff encourages individuals, including the younger generation, to prepare for aging and remove the fear of getting older.TakeawaysEmbrace aging and live a vibrant, active life.Challenge misconceptions in marketing campaigns targeted at older adults.Focus on physical and mental health for overall well-being.Prepare for aging and remove the fear of getting older.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:29 About Age of Majority01:21 Inspiration for the TEDx Talk04:30 The U-Curve of Happiness08:35 Learning New Things and Acquiring Experiences15:39 Misconceptions in Marketing21:38 Importance of Physical and Mental Health25:31 Productivity of Active Agers29:29 Preparing for Aging35:37 Embracing Aging41:17 Future TalksTed X Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P07DPDptUvQSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Sally Duplantier (du-PLON-tee-ay) is a renowned gerontologist and founder of Zing. Her mission is to help older adults live their best lives longer through better nutrition, more movement, better sleep, less stress, and more social engagement. Sally is also the host of Wellness Wednesdays, a free service to the community which provides evidenced-based programs related to healthy aging. Sally was recently named one of the Top 10 Entrepreneurs Breaking Barriers and Making a Difference by LA Weekly. She is currently doing research related to the health and wellbeing of family caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients.About This Podcast Episode:Sally Duplantier, founder of Myzing Life and host of Wellness Wednesdays, discusses the importance of healthy aging and shares insights on nutrition, sleep, stress management, and building healthy habits. She emphasizes the need for purpose in life and the impact of social connection on overall happiness and health. Sally highlights the four pillars of health: nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management, and explains how these factors contribute to healthy aging. She also discusses the role of personalized coaching and the benefits of her Wellness Wednesdays program in providing evidence-based information on healthy aging.Takeaways:Finding purpose in life and making a difference, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on overall happiness and health.The four pillars of health - nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management - play a crucial role in healthy aging.Personalized coaching and accountability can help individuals adopt and maintain new health habits.Wellness Wednesdays and similar programs provide evidence-based information and a supportive community for older adults to learn about and improve their health.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background03:09 Finding Purpose in Life04:16 The Four Pillars of Health10:38 The Impact of Nutrition on Healthy Aging15:12 The Importance of Sleep for Older Adults20:26 Stress Management Techniques for Older Adults23:37 Building and Maintaining Healthy Habits29:13 Wellness Wednesdays and Aging Reimagined35:22 The Role of Personalized Coaching in Health Goals38:22 ConclusionContact Sally: https://myzinglife.com/contact-usLinkedIn Handle: (4) Sally Crawford Duplantier | LinkedIn Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Kris Wilson, an occupational therapist and owner of Modified Independence, specializes in aging in place. He discusses the need for aging in place services and the limitations of home health therapy assessments. Kris explains the factors he considers in evaluations, including the payer, patient goals, and financial constraints. He emphasizes the importance of managing client expectations and providing recommendations based on clinical judgment. Kris also highlights the role of home safety assessments in enhancing fall prevention strategies. He shares a success story of improving a patient's quality of life through home modifications. Contact information is provided for those interested in Kris's services.TakeawaysAging in place services are crucial for addressing the safety and functional needs of older adults in their homes.Home health therapy assessments have limitations in addressing home safety and modifications.Factors considered in evaluations include the payer, patient goals, and financial constraints.Managing client expectations and providing clinical recommendations are essential in the assessment process.Home safety assessments play a vital role in enhancing fall prevention strategies and improving quality of life for older adults.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:47 The Need for Aging in Place Services04:06 Factors Considered in Evaluations07:17 Financial Considerations08:43 Managing Client Expectations11:35 Comparison of Home Health Therapy and Home Safety Assessments15:13 Limitations of Home Health Therapy Assessments18:17 The Role of Home Safety Assessments23:43 Integrating OT Expertise with Home Modifications27:05 Success Story: Improving Quality of Life30:54 Conclusion and Contact InformationContact KrisKris Wilson, OT/L, CEACkris@callbeforemomfalls.com(ph) 904-710-8571(fax) 904-592-5313Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Dimora Designs is a full-service Interior Design Studio serving the greater Tampa, Florida and Atlanta, Georgia areas. Co- Founded by two sisters, Dana Marino & Michelle Schiessle. They specialize in creating functional, yet dramatic spaces for everyday life. If you want to learn more about how you can modify your basement to increase livability for aging parents who visit often or are considering moving in with you, then this episode is for you.Join Michelle and I to learn more about the ins and outs of renovating a basement with function and accessibility in mind.  Visit Website: Dimora Designs  Instagram HandleLinkedIn ProfileThey also have an online home decor store including fixtures, lighting and home accessories: www.shopdimora.com.Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Lanada Chanel Duncan wants to influence the way people live and experience wellbeing in their homes. She believes interior design is meant to do that.When she put her design skills and business savvy to good use and founded b.e. decorsInteriors (beachy earthtones) after an unexpected health scare in 2015, one of the firstprojects her design firm did was transform a spare bedroom in her home into a tranquillounge and workspace which Lanada calls her She-Cave.For the past 7 years, she has helped others achieve their definition of wellness using color psychology and biophilic design to style peaceful, cozy rooms that foster a sense of comfort and refuge and evoke feelings of rejuvenation.Through collaborations with select craftsmen, Lanada uses interior design techniques to create comfortable, modernized spaces that are holistically and aesthetically pleasing to her clients. From design conception to completion, her firm works intentionally to ensurefinished spaces not only reflect the style and personality of the homeowner but also support the idea and feeling of home and what it means to dwell in peace.“Our homes reflect who we are and should serve as the ultimate safe-haven for retreating from stressors of the world, so we use design principles and elements that support physical and mental wellness.”Web: b.e.decors.comOffice: 470-981-9624 | Email: info@bedecors.com | Email:  bedecors@gmail.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanadaduncanIG/FB: @b.e.decorsSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
In the dynamic world of interior design, the palette we choose does more than just serve the eye; it’s a fundamental component in fostering an environment that nurtures health, safety, and overall wellness.The hues that adorn our walls, the contrasts that define our spaces, and the color schemes that we wake up to every morning have the power to influence our daily experiences and moods in profound ways.As a certified aging in place specialist and an experienced occupational therapist, my journey with clients has reinforced the belief that the right color choices are instrumental in crafting living spaces that are not merely visually appealing but are also havens of comfort and ease.The colors we surround ourselves with can offer a sense of calm, invigorate our spirit, or make navigation through a space more intuitive and safer, especially as we age.This article aims to explore the nuanced relationship between color and its psychological impacts in the context of interior design.We will uncover how strategic color use can create not only a visually stunning environment but also one that supports the physical and emotional needs of individuals.This is particularly crucial for those who wish to age in place with dignity, maintaining independence and quality of life in a home that’s adapted to their evolving needs.Join me as we delve into the world of colors, examining how they can be harnessed to enhance well-being, ensure safety, and promote a sense of wellness that transcends aesthetic pleasure.Whether you’re redesigning a family home to accommodate the golden years or simply curious about the intersection of color and comfort, this exploration will shed light on the powerful role color plays in our lives and how it can be optimized within the sanctuary of our homes.Full Article: Enhancing Health Safety and Wellness Through Colorful Interior DesignSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Are you interested in starting a business as an aging in place specialist? Or learning more about SEO, AI writing tools, and online marketing? If you answered yes, then you should listen to my podcast episode with Webmaster, Esther Kane. We discuss several marketing tools and online strategies that can help you get your business off the ground through the development of a fully functioning website and more. The discussion is centered around creating a robust online presence through a well-designed website and leveraging SEO, AI writing tools, and other digital marketing tactics to effectively reach and serve the aging population.Key Points Discussed:Starting a business as an aging in place specialist.The importance of SEO and online marketing in reaching the target audience.Utilizing AI writing tools to enhance content creation.Strategies for developing a fully functional website that caters to the needs of the aging community.Our website: https://aipmarketingtools.com/Please join our LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14306193/What Is Blog Marketing? A Beginner’s Guide For Aging In Place SpecialistsSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Jim Greatorex is the vice president of VGM Live at Home. VGM Live at Home is a nationwide, collaborative membership community with services and solutions for independently owned and operated, certified accessible home modification providers and contractors.VGM Live at Home built its network of providers as the solution to this societal issue. They continue to add resources to their membership, so the VGM Live at Home providers are the trusted source of “Best in Class” companies in their market. Some of these resources include:Certified education programs that teach best practicesStrong relationships with manufacturer partners who provide great product solutions that make your customers and their families’ lives betterFight for government rules that will allow tax breaks for those who invest to make their homes livable with safe modificationsThought leadership that helps guide strategy and innovative thinkingAs a division of VGM & Associates, VGM Live At Home also gives its members access to the services offered by other VGM divisions. Their overall focus is to help independent businesses thrive.  VGM Building Opportunities SummitContact VGMContact Jim: jim.greatorex@vgm.comSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
About Steve GurneySteve Gurney founded Retirement Living SourceBook in 1990. Drawing from the experience of observing his family caring for Steve’s aging grandfather, he created a comprehensive publication to help others in the same situation. Over the next few years Steve expanded the publication to three regional editions, DC metro, State of Maryland, and the Philadelphia region. Steve has worked closely with nearly every regional and national organization on aging to help maximize their exposure and helping find solutions to their challenges.In 1998, Mr. Gurney sold his company to The Washington Post where he served as General Manager of Sourcebook and the Senior Living Solutions Division. In 2019, Mr. Gurney acquired the resource back, and has re-branded as Positive Aging Community adding a new design and content, distribution partners, podcasts, and a robust schedule of live and interactive discussions with thought-leaders on a wide variety of topics.In addition, Mr. Gurney founded ProAging Network meetings and leads the DC Senior Resource Group important resources for senior-serving professionals.Mr. Gurney serves or has served on the board of directors for the Grass Roots Organization for the Well-Being of Seniors (GROWS), Alzheimer’s Association, Interages, Business and Aging Task Force, Virginia Intergenerational Task Force, and the Beacon Institute. Steve has served on countless committees and provided guidance to help organizations and businesses better serve the senior population.  Mr. Gurney has received awards and recognition from the Seabury Resources for Aging, Maryland Assisted Living Association, the Senior Marketing Institute and other notable organizations. Steve is a regular speaker at local, regional and national events and has been featured in regional and national publications, electronic and broadcast media.Steve Gurney received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Old Dominion University and a Masters Degree from the Erickson School of Aging Studies at University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC).Mr. Gurney served as an adjunct professor at Erickson School of Aging Studies at University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), instructing in the undergraduate and graduate programs.Steve is a competitive endurance athlete and certified level 2 Adaptive Snowboard Instructor with the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI), a certified level 2 Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor with the American Canoe Association (ACA).  In the winter he instructs with Blue Ridge Adaptive Snow Sports at Liberty Mountain Resort, and for over eight years he led operations and a team of instructors at Surf Reston Stand Up Paddleboarding, which he turned over to Reston Association.Contact Steve Gurney at 703-966-6182 or steve@proaging.comLinkedIN ProfileSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Julie Sawchuk B.Sc., B.Ed., RHFACAs a Best Selling Author, Speaker, Educator and Accessibility Strategist, Julie is committed to forming positive, strong, and responsive relationships that help you create accessible spaces. After sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2015, Julie became aware of the everyday challenge of living in a world not built with accessibilityin mind, and so began her journey as an accessibility strategist. She earned the RickHansen Foundation Accessibility Certification and launched Sawchuk Accessible Solutions, where she consults, completes accessibility ratings and educates folks in the design and construction industry all across Canada.In 2022, Julie was chosen by the Minister of Seniors and Accessibility to Chair thereview of the Design of Public Spaces for the Province of Ontario. Julie was also akey member of the Canadian Standards Association’s Accessible DwellingsTechnical Committee and is the Vice Chair of the Huron County AccessibilityAdvisory Committee.Whether it's retrofitting an existing building or starting from scratch, Juliespeaks to audiences of architects, facilities managers, engineers and builders toachieve meaningful levels of accessibility for private homes, internationalairports and everything in between.Julies's Books:Building Better Bathrooms https://www.amazon.com/Building-Better-Bathrooms-Connecting-accessible-ebook/dp/B08XZMZZJF/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2M2O3JQUVZ4OH&keywords=julie+sawchuk&qid=1694541388&sprefix=julie+sawchuk%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1Build Your Space  https://www.amazon.com/Build-YOUR-Space-create-accessible/dp/1999238400/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2M2O3JQUVZ4OH&keywords=julie+sawchuk&qid=1694541441&sprefix=julie+sawchuk%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-2Folks can contact me at my website www.juliesawchuk.comSupport the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Stephen has been a Realtor, Accessibility Specialist, and Disability Advocate in theSan Francisco/Bay Area since 2004. In 2021, Stephen launched a podcast aboutAccessible Housing called Accessible Housing Matters. The show profiles disability advocates and influencers who are passionate aboutinclusion and improving housing accessibility. In 2023, he was named the 2023 Fair Housing Champion by the California Association of Realtors.Stephen serves on the Board of Directors of East Bay Innovations, a non-profitdedicated to empowering people with developmental disabilities with supportedhousing and employment opportunities. He is also a member of the Alameda County Developmental Disabilities Planning and Advisory Council.Stephen’s professional experience includes real estate sales, journalism, softwareproduct marketing, and project management. He holds two Bachelor’sdegrees…one in Business Administration and another in Journalism. He was bornin Toronto, Canada, but has lived in the Bay Area since 2000.When Stephen and his wife aren’t out on the town enjoying live theatre(especially musicals), they love spending quiet time at home with their two cats,Fred & Ginger. The cats graciously allow the couple to share their living space inexchange for food and constant attention.phen has been a Realtor, Accessibility Specialist, and Disability Advocate in theSan Francisco/Bay Area since 2004. In 2021, Stephen launched a podcast aboutAccessible Housing called Accessible Housing Matters. Theshow profiles disability advocates and influencers who are passionate aboutinclusion and improving housing accessibility. In 2023, he was named the 2023Fair Housing Champion by the California Association of Realtors.Stephen serves on the Board of Directors of East Bay Innovations, a non-profitdedicated to empowering people with developmental disabilities with supportedhousing and employment opportunities. He is also a member of the AlamedaCounty Developmental Disabilities Planning and Advisory Council.Stephen’s professional experience includes real estate sales, journalism, softwareproduct marketing, and project management. He holds two Bachelor’sdegrees…one in Business Administration and another in Journalism. He was bornin Toronto, Canada, but has lived in the Bay Area since 2000.When Stephen and his wife aren’t out on the town enjoying live theatre(especially musicals), they love spending quiet time at home with their two cats,Fred & Ginger. The cats graciously allow the couple to share their living space inexchange for food and constant attention.Contact Stephen: https://www.beardrealtyteam.com/contactus/Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Universal Design (UD) is a holistic approach aimed at creating spaces and products that are accessible, understandable, and usable by everyone, irrespective of age, size, or physical capability. The objective extends beyond mere accessibility to encompass usability, comprehension, and enjoyment. For the hospitality sector, especially in catering to Baby Boomers, this translates to designs that are both aesthetically appealing and functional for all guests. Key principles of UD include:1. Equitable Use: Designs should cater to people with varied abilities, like ensuring wheelchair accessibility for entrances and providing elevators.2.  Flexibility in Use: Accommodate diverse preferences, such as adjustable bed heights and both walk-in showers and bathtubs.3.  Simple and Intuitive Use: Designs should be straightforward, exemplified by clear signage and user-friendly fixtures.4. Perceptible Information: Effective communication of essential information, using visual, tactile, and auditory cues.5. Tolerance for Error: Minimize risks of unintended actions, like using non-slip flooring in bathrooms.6. Low Physical Effort: Ensure designs require minimal effort, such as using lever door handles over traditional ones.7. Size and Space for Approach and Use: Ensure ample space for everyone, like wide corridors for wheelchair users.By adhering to these principles, the hospitality industry can provide an inclusive environment that meets the needs, preferences, and abilities of Baby Boomers, enhancing customer satisfaction and fostering brand loyalty, leading to business growth.Full Article:https://homedesignsforlife.com/baby-boomers-are-the-future-of-hospitality-how-to-create-boomer-friendly-environments/Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
Baby Boomers, individuals born between 1946 and 1964, are a significant market segment with considerable economic influence. With their disposable income and free time, they frequently travel and dine out. The hospitality industry needs to adapt to their tastes, preferences, and requirements. As they age, their needs will lead to disruptions in the senior living industry, offering opportunities for those who innovate and challenges for those who don't. The article discusses the economic influence of Baby Boomers, who hold over half of the nation's wealth. It emphasizes the concept of "Aging in Place" and the importance of creating Boomer-friendly environments in the hospitality sector. This includes considerations for accessibility, safety, technological solutions, comfort, and quality of life. The article also touches on the benefits of catering to this demographic, such as a larger customer base and increased loyalty. Future trends in hospitality for the aging population include a focus on health and wellness, digital inclusion, personalized services, accessible travel, and the integration of assistive technologies.1. Economic Influence: With Baby Boomers holding over half of the nation's wealth, how will this demographic's spending habits shape the future of various industries, especially hospitality?2. Aging in Place: As the concept of "Aging in Place" gains traction, how will the hospitality industry evolve to ensure that their environments are not only accessible but also comfortable and intuitive for older adults?3. Future Trends: With the rise in health and wellness priorities and the integration of technology, how will the hospitality sector innovate to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the aging population?Full Article:https://homedesignsforlife.com/baby-boomers-are-the-future-of-hospitality-how-to-create-boomer-friendly-environments/Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
WheelPad L3C is dedicated to helping people live in a home they love. Universally accessible homes keep families together and create true housing choice for all. WheelPad creates housing solutions to make it easy to live, work, and play at home.WheelPad makes Personal Accessible Dwellings (PADs) that can rapidly make any property a safe and cozy universally accessible place. We aim to help people have more housing choice: whether they are seeking to stay in their home as they age, recover after an accident, or quickly add more square footage for a growing and changing family.Wheel Pad has two main products: SuitePAD and StudioPAD. Both of these models exceed ADA specifications. They come with a track in the ceiling that is compatible with most lifts on the market that can take you from the bedroom to the bathroom. The bathroom itself is a full wet room to avoid transitioning in and out of the shower, and allows ample space for an aide if needed. Studio PAD also has an accessible kitchenette for more independent living. From there we get larger: Any PAD can be made to be an XL PAD. It's wider, and can accomodate a queen-sized bed.We also offer the WheelPad Buyback Commitment. Once you are done with your WheelPad give us a call, and we can purchase it back from you after a third party inspection, so it can serve another family in need.But we don't just create utilitarian space! We've won awards for our design- it's a warm and cozy setting that you'll love being in! You can see more photos of these and other elements here on the photos page of our website!Bio : RJ AdlerDirector of GrowthRJ has spent an exciting marketing career that spans fundraising at The Keewaydin Foundation, his boyhood summer camp, and Community Organizing at SunCommon, a solar energy company. A keen interest in accessible housing has driven him to WheelPad where he aims to help more people live independently. RJ lives in Berlin, VT, where he enjoys going outside, dancing, and playing music.Support the showwebsite: https://homedesignsforlife.com/Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com
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